Variable Distance Neutron Emitter for Controllable Alpha-Target Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neutron sources are either passive and always on or massive and power-intensive, limiting their application due to size and power consumption, making it difficult to develop smaller, controllable devices for various research and industrial uses.
Innovation Solution
A neutron emitting device comprising an α-particle emitting material and a neutron producing target material, with an α-particle attenuating material in between, allows for variable distance control between the substrates to modulate neutron emission rates, enabling devices that can be turned on/off or pulsed with minimal power, mimicking machine sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If passive neutron sources are used, then neutron emission is continuous, but the devices cannot be turned on/off and consume power continuously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the distance between the alpha-particle emitting material and neutron producing target material variable rather than fixed. By dynamically adjusting the separation distance, the device can control neutron emission rates and turn emission on/off, transforming a static passive source into a controllable system that responds to operational needs without continuous power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of separation distance between the alpha source and target material to control neutron emission. By varying this distance parameter, the device modulates the rate of alpha particle transmission and subsequent neutron production, enabling controllable emission rates without requiring continuous power input.
2Ease of operation
If machine sources of neutrons are used, then neutrons can be turned on/off, but the devices are massive in size and consume enormous amounts of power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service by utilizing the inherent radioactive decay of the alpha-particle emitting material as the energy source. The alpha particles are generated spontaneously without external power input, and by simply adjusting the geometric configuration (distance) between the alpha source and target, the device controls neutron emission using passive mechanical adjustment rather than active power-consuming mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the power-consuming components from the system by separating the neutron production mechanism from external power sources. The core neutron production function is achieved through the natural radioactive decay process combined with simple geometric control, removing the need for massive accelerators or plasma devices that require enormous power inputs.
3Productivity
If the distance between substrates is reduced to increase neutron emission, then emission rate increases, but alpha particle transmission is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of a variable distance configuration between the alpha source and target. This distance acts as a controllable mediator that allows optimization of both alpha particle transmission and neutron production efficiency, enabling the system to achieve high neutron emission rates while managing alpha particle attenuation through precise geometric control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution allows for the creation of compact, power-efficient neutron emitting devices that can be selectively turned on/off or cycled, enhancing their applicability in various fields by controlling neutron emission rates through distance or view factor changes, thus overcoming the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
an α-particle emitting material located on a first substrate
Implementation Method 2
The devices utilize a nuclear reaction between two materials that are separated by a space through which α-particles may be transmitted
Implementation Method 3
an α-particle attenuating material disposed therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
Microsized devices operable to emit neutrons in a selective manner are provided. The devices are configured so that the rate of neutron emission can be varied, either actively or passively. The devices comprise an a-particle emitting material and a neutron producing target material that when aligned and/or positioned a predetermined distance apart emit neutrons. The rate of neutron emission can be slowed or stopped by taking the materials out of alignment and/or attenuating the α-particles being directed toward the neutron producing target material.